In a telegram the Pontiff has expressed deep grief and sorrow over loss of valuable lives a result of Hurricane Mathew – which has struck Haiti. Death toll has reaches 572 thus far, while thousands have been left homeless. Pope Francis has written a telegram assuring his prayer and spiritual closeness to all those affected by the disaster.

The telegram which was posted on October 7, Friday stated: “Learning of the devastation wrought by hurricane Matthew, which has caused numerous victims and considerable damage, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his sadness and assures his prayer for all those who have lost a loved one.”

The telegram was signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, while it addressed the President of the Haitian Bishops’ Conference Cardinal Chibly Langlois. Cardinal Pietro conveyed Pope Francis’s deep sympathy in these painful circumstances.

The pontiff entrusted the deceased to the Divine mercy of God, he stated that the Lord would “welcome them into his light.” He expressed sympathies with the injured and those who have lost their homes, as he ensured the of continuous prayers for her.

In line with the U.N. Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs, about 350,000 people are in definite need of assistance. On the other hand, international charity organization Red Cross has already initiated an emergency appeal for $6.9m so as to provide relief including medical help, shelter, water and sanitation to some 50,000 affected people. The relentless hurricane has now spear headed toward the coast of Florida after it tore through Haiti and pounded Cuba and the Bahamas.